Tourism in Sudan

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Eastern Africa

Tourist attractions

Pyramids of Meroë

Region: East bank of mid-Nile River

Cultural heritage

Late Kingdom of Kush royal necropolis. Over 40 steep, small pyramids stand clustered.

Jebel Barkal and Napata Sites

Region: Karima, Northern State

Cultural heritage

Sacred mountain protruding into desert with Temple of Amun ruins and royal tombs. UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sanganeb Marine National Park

Region: Red Sea offshore atoll

Natural

Diving spot boasting 40m visibility. Manta rays and sharks patrol the waters.

Nubian Desert 4WD Safari

Region: Around Dongola, Northern State

Natural

Off-road exploration following golden dunes and ancient trade routes.

Sufi Friday Dhikr (Khartoum)

Region: Khartoum-Omdurman

Cultural experience

Whirling dance and drum ceremony held at Green Mosque plaza.

Port Sudan Old Town and Fish Market

Region: Port Sudan, Red Sea State

Modern architecture

British colonial coral stone architecture and vibrant fish market.

Tala Boo Fortress

Region: Blue Nile State

Historical ruins

Mud-brick fortress ruins from Funj Kingdom era. Overlooks Blue Nile.

Deriba Caldera

Region: Marrah Mountains, West Darfur State

Natural

Crater lake at 3,042m elevation. Cool highland climate and rare plants are attractions.

Wadi Halfa Ruins and Nubian Museum Branch

Region: Wadi Halfa, Northern State

Archaeological

Ancient Nubian ruins and artifact exhibitions in border trade town.

Khartoum National Museum

Region: Khartoum

Museum

Comprehensive collection of precious artifacts from Kush, Christian Nubia, and Islamic periods.

Suggested itineraries

Ancient Nubian Heritage Tour - 7 Days

Duration (days): 7

Highlights: Meroë, Jebel Barkal, Old Dongola, Nile River Cruise

Departing from Khartoum. Travel north by private vehicle to explore pyramids and temples, viewing sunset at Jebel Barkal. Route for archaeology enthusiasts.

Red Sea Diving and Desert Train - 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Sanganeb Atoll, Port Sudan railway journey, Beja settlement visits

Night train from Khartoum to Red Sea. Two days diving at atoll, returning via Beja camel market tour.

Darfur Highland Trekking - 10 Days

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Deriba Caldera, Nuba village homestay, Traditional pottery making experience

Adventure with specialist guide. Schedule for November-February, avoiding rainy season.

Travel tips

  • Obtain visa at overseas missions before travel for certainty
  • Local currency SDG cannot be exported. US dollar cash is easily exchangeable
  • ATMs limited to Khartoum and Port Sudan. Credit card use is restricted
  • Desert areas have large day-night temperature variations. Bring layered clothing
  • Photographing military facilities, bridges, and airports is prohibited
  • Check Ministry of Foreign Affairs travel advisories as armed conflict continues in some areas since 2023
  • Female travelers should wear long sleeves and long skirts for safety
  • Use air travel or licensed four-wheel drive vehicles for long-distance travel
  • Dry season (November-March) is high tourism season. Comfortable temperatures around 30°C
  • Major local SIM carriers are Zain and MTN. Available for purchase at airport
  • Boil tap water or use bottled water
  • Tipping culture is not strong but 5-10% is customary in service industries
  • Traffic volume decreases dramatically during Friday noon prayers
  • Carry GPS and satellite phone in desert areas
  • Insurance is essential for diving due to inadequate medical facilities

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